A 14-year-old girl from southern Utah teen is recovering after spending a cold night alone stranded in The Narrows in Zion National Park.
KSL reports Aloha Joy was hiking with a group when she fell behind and had difficulty catching up. When she couldn’t locate her group she made a wrong turn following a cairn and footprints she saw on the ground. Aloha ended up in Ordeville Canyon and did her best to alert anyone near by that she was in distress by yelling but no one came.
Realizing she was alone, Aloha hunkered down for the night using an emergency blanket to keep warm. The following a morning a couple hiking the canyon found her and brought her to safety. She was evaluated by National Park Service EMT and was released on scene. Here is her advise to hikers after her ordeal:
“When you’re going on a long hike like that and especially if you don’t know the way always stay with somebody because it’s terrifying to lost on your own, especially in the middle of the night.”
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Backcountry hiking can be an exhilarating and rewarding experience, but it also comes with inherent risks that demand careful preparation and consideration for safety. Before embarking on a backcountry adventure, hikers should prioritize safety to ensure an enjoyable and incident-free trip.
First and foremost, thorough planning is essential. Research the area you’ll be hiking in, checking for weather conditions, trail difficulty, and potential hazards. Inform someone reliable about your trip details, including your planned route and return time, in case of emergencies.
Carry proper equipment and essentials, such as a map, compass, first aid kit, extra clothing, sufficient food and water, and a reliable communication device like a satellite phone or locator beacon. Don’t forget to pack a multi-tool, flashlight, and fire-starting equipment for unforeseen situations.
Be aware of your physical abilities and limitations, choosing trails that match your fitness level and experience. Pace yourself during the hike, taking regular breaks to rest and hydrate. Pay attention to weather changes and retreat if conditions worsen.
Respect wildlife and refrain from approaching or feeding animals. Store food properly to avoid attracting wildlife to your campsite, reducing the risk of potential encounters.
Finally, hiking with a partner or a group is safer than going alone. In case of injury or other emergencies, having others with you can make a crucial difference.
By following these safety measures, hikers can minimize risks and fully appreciate the beauty of backcountry hiking while ensuring a safe and memorable journey. Remember, proper preparation and a responsible attitude are key to a successful backcountry adventure.